APSCo OutSource Podcast

Episode 1: Demystifying the external workforce with Chris Hughes

In this episode, Brian Huggett sits down with down with Chris Hughes, Vice President EMEA Legal & International Compliance at Magnit and Chair of the APSCo OutSource Representative Committee, to explore how the external workforce is typically structured using a Vendor Management System (VMS).

From recruited workers and payroll, to independent contractors and statement of work (SOW), Chris explains how organisations can begin to make sense of an increasingly fragmented workforce.

Episode 2: Navigating M&A in Recruitment Outsourcing with Ronny Grosman

In this episode, Brian Huggett sits down with Ronny Grosman, Managing Partner at Blackwood Capital Group, for a deep dive into the current state of M&A in recruitment outsourcing.

Together, they explore how the sector has evolved, what’s driving deal activity, and where opportunity lies in an increasingly competitive and tech-driven landscape. From the rise of cross-border transactions to the growing role of private equity, this conversation is packed with strategic insights. Ronny also reflects on the often-overlooked human side of M&A, and why relationships still matter in a numbers and tech-led world.

Episode 3: The Future of External Workforce Management and the Statement of Work with Mel Barnett and Vivienne McCormick

In this conversation, Mel Barnett and Vivienne McCormick from AMS discuss the evolving landscape of workforce management, with a particular focus on the importance of Statement of Work (SOW) and the impact of current economic trends and legislation on workforce strategies. They explore the differences between public and private sector approaches, the significance of compliance, and the role of technology in enhancing visibility and efficiency in workforce management.

The discussion emphasises the need for organisations to adapt to changes in the workforce, including the rise of non-permanent roles, and to educate themselves on effective procurement strategies to optimise their workforce.

Episode 4: Evolution of Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) with Olly Harris

In this conversation, Olly Harris, Global Managing Director at Page Outsourcing, joins Brian Huggett to explore the evolution and future of recruitment process outsourcing. From its early days as a response to fragmented hiring processes, to today’s demand for globally integrated, flexible solutions - Olly offers a holistic perspective on how the industry has matured.

The conversation unpacks the shifting needs of clients, the complexities of international delivery, and the growing appetite for modular solutions that can flex with market demands and local conditions.

He challenges assumptions around skills-based hiring, explaining why it remains widely misunderstood despite its potential, and makes the case for investing in client relationships during slower cycles as a foundation for long-term strategic growth.

Episode 5: The Evolution of MSP Programmes – One Size Doesn’t Fit All with Chris Buckingham

In this conversation, Chris Buckingham, Managing Director - Avencia Talent Solutions, joins Brian Huggett to discuss the evolving dynamics of workforce strategy in the insurance sector. Together, they explore the point at which MSP programmes become viable, the operational challenges of applying tenure policies, and why fragmented workforce data remains such a persistent issue.
 
Chris shares practical reflections from delivery, including the rise in interim hiring and how consulting frameworks are increasingly being used to supplement internal teams without triggering headcount scrutiny. The conversation also explores AI adoption, the blockers slowing progress, and why risk appetite remains a defining factor in how organisations shape their workforce strategies.